A characteristic element of the Easter celebration in Malta is the traditional run with the Statue of the Risen Christ. This tradition has become practically synonymous during these processions, so much so that most of those present are eagerly awaiting the moment when, after the altar boys and the clergy have processed quite a way forward, those carrying the statue shoulder high begin their sprint, which has sometimes ended badly.
It is believed that behind this tradition there could be historical roots tied to the time of British rule when there was a time limit imposed on these processions and, to avoid being fined, the last part of the procession was completed with a sprint. It is certain that this tradition was well established by the first half of last century. And this is verified by the fact that the Regional Council of Malta in 1935 prohibited these runs with religious statues. However, after the Second World War, these traditional runs were resumed particularly in Cospicua and Vittoriosa, to which ecclesiastical authorities of the time turned a blind eye.
But for this run to become more than just an attraction and find its place in the procession, which is first and foremost a liturgical action, it is essential that this deeply ingrained Easter Sunday tradition is grounded theologically to reflect the core of what Easter really means. Without a doubt, the sprint is an expression of joy, not only the joy of being together and socialising, but above all the joy that the Good News of Christ’s Resurrection from the dead brings. This is the joy that can truly gather and unite us together.
Also, in Biblical accounts of the resurrection, we do accounts of people running not only to the tomb—who thus were still marked with the darkness of the Sabbath (See Jn 20:3-4)—but also running from the tomb after encountering the Risen Lord according to his command to make known this news. We find the women, notably Mary of Magdala, who ran to give the news of the Resurrection to the disciples (Mt 28:8; Lk 24:9). We find the disciples of Emmaus, who, upon realising they had spent the day with the Risen Lord, returned to Jerusalem to share the news (Lk 24:33). It is a run marked by a heart on fire (Lk 24:32) because, within their hearts, they are carrying the Lord to share him with others.
In life’s breathless run, may we carry the Lord in our hearts and, even if we feel weary, let us share his joy with our brothers and sisters—a joy that goes beyond the euphoria of the moment. It is a joy that irrupts into each moment of our existence, and thus can be experienced even in our daily struggles.